The government launches a website today for people considering cosmetic surgery, which will suggest that if they really think going under the knife will improve their social life or relationships, they should consider talking to a psychologist.

Sir Liam Donaldson, chief medical officer, said there was a lack of balanced information about the risks and benefits of cosmetic surgery. "People need help to make informed choices about whether to have cosmetic surgery or a non-surgical cosmetic treatment," he said. "Well-informed patients can help to drive up standards among providers in a field of healthcare where there have been concerns."

Alongside the list of questions to ask the clinic, to establish how risky the operation is and how qualified the surgeon is to carry it out, the website also tackles the insecurity that motivates some people to want to change the way they look. It asks:

· Do you expect it to change your life as well as your appearance, and how do you think your life will be better?

· Is it reasonable or likely that a change in your appearance will radically change your life?

· Are you considering surgery for yourself or to please someone else?

· Do you think that having surgery will improve your relationship or employment prospects?

· Is it reasonable to expect surgery to achieve the changes to your appearance that you are hoping for?

There are alternatives to cosmetic surgery, it says. "If you feel your concerns about your appearance result from anxieties about social situations or from problems with relationships, you might want to discuss with your GP or another professional the possibility of seeing a counsellor or psychologist. They may be able to help you to address your concerns in other effective ways."

The website follows a report from the expert group on the regulation of cosmetic surgery which found evidence of hard-selling by clinics to a vulnerable group of people.